If you didn't read my colleague Mary Orndorff's story about the history of corruption in Alabama, you should. Click here. We're good at corruption, that's for sure.

The indictment of the Bingo 11 last week was a sad day for Alabama. Casino owners Milton McGregor and Ronnie Gilley, along with four state senators and five others, including lobbyists and bureaucrats, were indicted on corruption charges. It was only a few years ago that lawmakers and two-year college officials were being tried and convicted for corruption. Former Gov. Don Siegelman got nailed, as did Gov. Guy Hunt, who was thrown out of office.

When those Bingo 11 indictments came down, I was convinced that this time, the Legislature will act to strengthen the parts of Alabama law that let this kind of corruption flourish: end money transfers between political action committees that hide from the public who is funding campaigns; stop the cozy and lucrative financial relationship lobbyists have with lawmakers; give the state Ethics Commission some real teeth.

Now, after reading Orndorff's story, I'm not so sure. Our politicians talk a lot about "Alabama values" when they're running for office. Apparently, we voters aren't listening well enough, because it appears one of "Alabama's values" is outright corruption.

Sometimes, we even re-elect our corrupt officials when they get out of prison. We're stupid. If you don't think so, read Orndorff's story again. Click here.